On July 28, 2026, a powerful tornado struck northeastern Wisconsin, particularly affecting the Fox Cities region, which includes the cities of Appleton, Menasha, and Neenah. The tornado, classified as an EF3, touched down in the early afternoon and remained on the ground for over 20 minutes, resulting in significant damage to homes, vehicles, and infrastructure. First responders began searching through the wreckage for possible victims, as dozens of people were reported injured. Fortunately, the timing of the storm, occurring when many residents were at work, likely prevented fatalities. The tornado caused extensive destruction, with homes hollowed out, power lines downed, and trees uprooted. Eyewitness accounts described terrifying moments as residents sought shelter, with one individual noting that their neighbor's roof was ripped off, leaving furniture and drywall exposed. The local medical centers treated around 40 individuals for minor injuries related to the storm, highlighting the impact on the community. Governor Tony Evers declared a state of emergency for the affected areas, emphasizing the severity of the situation. Meteorologists indicated that the tornado was spawned by a large storm system moving through the Great Lakes, fueled by a combination of heat and humidity. This event serves as a reminder of the potential for severe weather in the region, as noted by Chad Merrill, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather, who stated that significant heat can lead to severe weather events like tornadoes. In the aftermath, local businesses and residents began to rally together to support those affected. Luigi's Pizza in Menasha set up a food trailer to distribute hygiene packs and free meals to those in need, showcasing the community's resilience in the face of disaster. As recovery efforts continue, the focus remains on assessing the damage and providing assistance to those impacted by the tornado.